English
nipple
Pronunciation
  • IPA: /ˈnɪp(ə)l/
Noun

nipple (plural nipples)

  1. (anatomy) The projection of a mammary gland from which, on female mammals, milk is secreted. [from 16th c.]
  2. A mechanical device through which liquids or gases can be passed in a regulated manner. [from 16th c.]
  3. An artificial nipple (definition 1) used for bottle-feeding infants. [from 17th c.]
  4. Any small physical protrusion, such as the lumps on the F and J keys on computer keyboards.
  5. Any small physical protrusion on an automotive, a machine part or any other part that fits into a groove on another part.
  6. (now, chiefly, historical) A perforated segment that fits into the muzzle of a breech-loading gun, on which the percussion cap is fixed. [from 19th c.]
    • 2013, Philipp Meyer, The Son, Simon & Schuster 2014, p. 23:
      I could tell he didn't agree but he went to the corner and took up his squirrel gun, feeling the nipple for a percussion cap.
  7. (chiefly, US) A short tube threaded at both ends, used as a connector. [from 19th c.]
  8. An internally threaded piece which holds a bicycle spoke in place on the rim. [from 20th c.]
    Turn the nipples on to the bicycle spokes only one turn, for each spoke on the new wheel all the way around until they are all snug, then check alignment.
Synonyms Translations Translations Translations Translations Verb

nipple (nipples, present participle nippling; past and past participle nippled)

  1. (transitive) To fit (a baby's bottle, etc.) with a nipple.
  2. (transitive) To give one's nipple to (a baby) to allow breastfeeding.


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